Human Resource Management Subjects & Syllabus

The Human Resource Management (HRM) syllabus covers the subjects and skills you need to manage people effectively in an organization. It includes topics like leadership, employee relations, organizational behavior, labor laws, and talent management. 

Along with theory, most courses offer internships and projects to give you hands-on experience in real workplace situations.

HRM is all about managing a company’s most valuable asset i.e., its people. From hiring and training to keeping employees motivated and ensuring workplace harmony, HR professionals handle it all.

If you enjoy working with people, solving problems, and staying organized, HRM could be a great career choice. In this blog, we’ll break down the HRM subjects and syllabus, along with career opportunities and practical applications.

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Core Subjects in Human Resource Management

The core subjects in HRM focus on building a strong foundation in managing people and processes within organizations. These topics prepare you to handle everything from recruitment to employee development with confidence.

Check out our top programs and upskill with the latest technologies and skills for a brighter HRM career:

• Generative AI Mastery Certificate for Managerial Excellence
• HR Analytics Course Certification from IIM-K
• Advanced General Management Program

We shall further explore the subjects you’ll study and how they can shape your HRM career!

• Compensation Management
  • Learn how to create fair salary structures and benefits packages.
  • Understand how to design bonuses, retirement plans, and insurance.
  • Focus on making sure pay aligns with industry standards and employee needs.
• HR Management
  • Explore how to attract, hire, and onboard new talent.
  • Dive into workforce planning and compliance with labor laws.
  • Understand policies for employee engagement and workplace ethics.
• Performance Management
  • Learn how to set goals and measure employee performance.
  • Conduct effective performance reviews and offer feedback.
  • Design plans to help employees improve and grow in their roles.
• Training and Development
  • Identify skill gaps in your team and plan training programs.
  • Learn how to design and deliver impactful workshops.
  • Monitor how well your training sessions improve performance.
• Organizational Change and Development
  • Manage changes like company restructuring or new systems.
  • Build a strong workplace culture during transitions.
  • Use tools to measure and improve overall organizational performance.

Elective Subjects in Human Resource Management

Electives in HRM allow you to specialize in areas you’re passionate about. These subjects help you deepen your skills and stand out in specific HR fields.

• Diversity and Inclusion
  • Learn how to build workplaces that welcome people from all backgrounds.
  • Focus on hiring practices and team activities that encourage inclusivity.
  • Address unconscious bias and promote equality across the organization.
• HR Technology
  • Master HR tools like Workday, SAP, and PeopleSoft to automate HR processes.
  • Learn HR analytics and see how it can guide smarter decision-making.
  • Use technology to manage payroll, attendance, and performance tracking.
• Leadership Development
  • Help identify and train future leaders in your company.
  • Learn how to coach employees to take on strategic roles.
  • Design programs that build leadership and decision-making skills.
• Recruitment Analytics
  • Use data to find the right candidates quickly and effectively.
  • Learn how predictive tools can improve hiring decisions.
  • Understand metrics like cost per hire and time to fill a role.
• Employee Relations
  • Learn how to handle workplace conflicts and resolve employee issues.
  • Build trust between employees and management through clear communication.
  • Focus on strategies that improve satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Overview of Human Resource Management Syllabus

HRM courses teach you how to handle workplace challenges and build strong teams. The Human Resource Management syllabus is divided into semesters, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced HR topics. Here’s how the program is structured.

Semester 1: Basics of HR

The first semester focuses on understanding organizations and building communication skills.

Semester 2: Practical HR Skills

This semester helps you gain hands-on experience in key HR tasks like recruitment and training.

Semester 3: Advanced HR Topics

You’ll focus on leadership and strategic HR planning by the third semester.

Semester 4: Specialization and Practice

The final semester focuses on preparing you for real-world HR roles through projects and internships.

HRM Subjects for Undergraduate Programs

A bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management focuses on basic concepts, helping students understand how organizations manage and develop people. It’s ideal for anyone starting their journey in HR.

HRM Subjects for Postgraduate Programs

A master’s degree in HRM dives deeper into advanced topics. It prepares students for strategic roles and equips them to handle complex organizational challenges.

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) for Human Resource Management in India

If you’re planning to study HRM in India, here’s what you need to know about the eligibility requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Undergraduate (UG) HRM Programs

A bachelor’s degree in HRM introduces you to the basics of managing people, organizations, and resources.

• Educational Qualification:
  • Completion of 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board.
  • Open to students from all streams (Arts, Commerce, Science).
• Minimum Marks:
  • Most institutions require at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade.
  • Relaxation in marks may apply for reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC).
• Entrance Tests:
  • Direct admission based on 12th marks is common.
  • Some universities may conduct entrance exams, e.g., DUET (Delhi University).

Postgraduate (PG) HRM Programs

A postgraduate program in HRM, like an MBA or PGDM, is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in HR.

• Educational Qualification:
  • A recognized bachelor's degree in any discipline.
  • Minimum 50% aggregate marks in graduation (varies by institution).
• Entrance Exams:
  • National tests like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, or GMAT.
  • Institute-specific exams (e.g., TISSNET for TISS, XAT for XLRI).
• Work Experience (Preferred):
  • Executive programs may require 2–3 years of professional experience.
  • Freshers are eligible for full-time MBA programs.
• Additional Rounds:
  • Some institutes conduct group discussions, written ability tests (WAT), or personal interviews.

Key Skills for HRM Programs

While meeting the academic criteria is essential, having these skills can make your journey smoother:

• Communication Skills: Essential for managing people and building relationships.
• Analytical Thinking: Needed for problem-solving and decision-making.
• Organizational Abilities: Crucial for managing recruitment, payroll, and compliance.
• Interpersonal Skills: Helps in resolving conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.

Industry-Specific Applications of HRM Subjects

HR has a distinct role in every industry, tailored to its unique needs. Whether it’s retaining top tech talent or managing large healthcare teams, HR ensures organizations run smoothly. Here’s a closer look at how HR works in different sectors.

HR in IT and Tech

• Retention Focus: Tech companies face high employee turnover. HR teams work on strategies to keep employees motivated and engaged.
• Skill Development: Upskilling programs are key to helping employees keep up with rapid tech changes.
• Team Planning: HR ensures tech teams are structured to handle demanding projects effectively.

HR in Healthcare

• Mass Hiring: Hospitals need large teams of doctors, nurses, and staff. HR ensures smooth recruitment processes.
• Compliance: Healthcare HR ensures facilities meet strict legal and ethical standards.
• Employee Well-Being: HR focuses on reducing burnout and supporting healthcare workers in stressful environments.

Career Opportunities After Studying HRM

Behind every successful organization is a strong HR team that manages talent, resolves conflicts, and builds a positive work culture. With an MBA or certification in HRM, you step into a world of opportunities that shapes businesses and empowers employees.

Here is a table highlighting different HR career options along with salary potential for various experience levels:

Let’s further explore each of these career options waiting for you in HRM and what will your role be in them:

1. HR Generalist

• Manages day-to-day HR functions like payroll, compliance, and employee relations.
• Acts as the go-to person for HR-related queries and concerns.

2. Recruitment Specialist

• Focuses on hiring top talent by sourcing, screening, and onboarding candidates.
• Builds recruitment strategies to meet organizational needs.

3. Training and Development Manager

• Designs and delivers employee training programs.
• Enhances employee skills and career growth within the organization.

4. HR Consultant

• Advises companies on HR policies, compliance, and workforce planning.
• Works on short-term or long-term HR projects.

5. Compensation and Benefits Specialist

• Designs competitive salary structures and employee benefits.
• Ensures compliance with labor laws and tax regulations.

6. HR Analytics Specialist

• Analyzes workforce data to drive better decision-making in hiring and retention.
• Uses tools like Tableau and SAP to identify trends.

7. Talent Acquisition Specialist

• Develops recruitment strategies for specialized roles.
• Collaborates with department heads to fulfill hiring needs.

8. Employee Relations Manager

• Resolves conflicts and promotes a positive work environment.
• Handles grievances and ensures compliance with workplace policies.

9. Organizational Development Specialist

• Focuses on improving organizational processes and performance.
• Designs programs to boost employee engagement and productivity.

10. Payroll Manager

• Manages employee salaries, tax deductions, and benefits.
• Ensures timely and accurate payroll processing.

Industries Hiring HR Professionals

• IT and Technology: Google, Microsoft, Infosys.
• Consulting: Deloitte, KPMG, McKinsey.
• Manufacturing: Tata, Mahindra, Larsen & Toubro.
• Healthcare: Apollo, Fortis.
• E-commerce: Amazon, Flipkart.

How upGrad Can Help You Succeed in HRM

upGrad, India’s leading online education platform, offers comprehensive support to help you achieve your career goals in HRM. Whether you're a fresher or a working professional, here’s how upGrad stands out:

Why Choose upGrad?

Placement Support:

• Access over 5,000 job openings every month through upGrad’s career portal.
• Prepare for interviews with mock sessions, mentorship, and resume-building tools.
• Get personalized career counseling to make informed career decisions.

Learning Support:

• Industry mentors and teaching assistants provide one-on-one guidance.
• Weekly live doubt-clearing sessions ensure you stay on track.
• Detailed feedback on assignments to improve your skills.

Track Record That Speaks for Itself:

• 50% average salary hike for HRM graduates.
• 400% maximum salary hike recorded.
• ₹73 LPA highest salary offered to learners.

Key Features of upGrad Programs:

• 100% Online Programs.
• Live Interactive Sessions with Industry Experts.
• Comprehensive Career Assistance.
• Weekly Doubt-Clearing Sessions.

Featured HRM Programs on upGrad

1.  HR Analytics Course (6 months)
   • Learn from IIM Kozhikode faculty.
   • Master HR practices, workforce planning, and talent sourcing analytics.
   • Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of work experience.
2. Global MBA - HR (18 months)
   • Covers organizational behavior, workforce planning, business law, and ethics.
   • Dual credentials: MBA from Liverpool Business School & PGP in Management from IMT Ghaziabad.

Explore these programs today to start or advance your HRM career.

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